The World Travel Awards, also known as a kind of Oscars for Tourism, had their European awards announced in Athens last June 30rd, giving Portugal the Best European Destination designation for the second time in a row.

Amongst the 12 final nominees, the voters chose Portugal once more as a hotspot to travel in Europe. Not only did Portugal was distinguished as best destination, as it took home 36 awards: Lisbon was recognized as the Best European City of the year, which had never happened before.

On the other hand, the city conquered its title as the Best Cruise Port for the third time.

Madeira was also on the highlights of the Awards, as it won the Best Island to travel to. This is the fifth time the voters support the islands as the most beautiful, natural isolated destination that will next year host this same event.

The Portuguese Tourism Office also got recognized for their work promoting the country by winning the best official Tourism Bureau in Europe. The best romantic hotel, luxury resort or family hotel are also found in Portugal

Since 1993 that the World Travel Awards recognizes the best of the travel industry worldwide. Collecting online votes, it's outcomes are based on people's votes and professional expertise that get to vote as professionals from the industry.